The Nookat district in Kyrgyzstan's southern Osh region has inaugurated its largest cold storage facility, established with the support of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The event saw the participation of Bakyt Torobaev, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic, and Kaya Adams, USAID Mission Director in the Kyrgyz Republic.
According to the U.S. Embassy in Kyrgyzstan, the facility will create 200 full-time jobs and aid local farmers in enhancing the marketability and sales of their produce. The installation of cooling equipment valued at $78,400 by USAID enables the Nookat Almasy Cooperative to store apples and raspberries, extending their shelf life up to four months. This capability allows for delayed sales at more favourable market prices, contributing to market stability and a steady food supply year-round.
Image: US Embassy in Kyrgyzstan
Since 2018, the U.S. government's involvement has facilitated the establishment of over 20 new cold storage facilities in southern Kyrgyzstan, increasing the region's storage capacity to 12,500 tons and reducing food spoilage by 40%, while generating income opportunities for more than 4,000 local farmers.
Source: timesca.com